Resident input needed for future north-south trailway

Orangeville-Brampton Railway Corridor to become multi-use trail

By ZACHARY ROMAN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Caledon residents are invited to share their thoughts on a future rail trail that will run through the municipality. 

In July of 2022, the Region of Peel, alongside Caledon, Brampton, and Mississauga, came together to acquire the Orangeville-Brampton Railway Corridor. It was acquired so it can be converted into a new north-south multi-use trailway for residents and visitors to enjoy.

The municipalities are sharing responsibility for the cost of developing, designing, constructing, and maintaining the future trail.

The Town of Caledon recently launched a survey about the Caledon section of the trail. 

“The Town of Caledon is responsible for converting the 36 kilometre section of rail line within our boundary to a multi-use pedestrian and cyclist trailway,” wrote Town staff on haveyoursaycaledon.ca, which is where residents can take the survey on the trail. “The decision for the Town of Caledon to acquire 36 kilometres of the rail line was passed by Council in April 2022.”

The survey on the trail opened on April 22, and will remain open for residents to complete until June 17.

The Town held two open houses about the trail — one on April 29 in Southfields and another on May 1 in Caledon East.

Some of the Town's goals with the new trail include: connecting communities in Caledon; promoting walking and cycling for recreation and enjoyment of nature; and supporting healthy living, economic development and tourism.

There are three phases of the trail project and Caledon is currently in the first phase: initial consultation, safety review, defining scope, and public consultation to inform preliminary design.

Phase Two includes preliminary trail design, public consultation on the design, and completion of studies relevant to trail construction.

Phase Three of the project is detailed design and construction of the trail.

Phase One of the project is expected to be completed in 2024.